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851-0651-00L 0.5 Credits DR D-GESS

Communicating Science for Global Development

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Adina Rom
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:48:15

Abstract

Students will learn the basics of science communication, effective writing, and how to use images to convey clear and compelling messages to a non-specialist public. The course will be taught by science communicator and freelance journalist Dr. Jacopo Pasotti. The workshop is geared to practical issues and grounded in the latest theory and practice of science communication.

Objective

• Students will get familiar with how to communicate science to the public, issues on credibility and trust building. • Students will learn how to craft a short but simple text on scientific topics, ideally suitable for a blog or newsletter. • Students get a broad understanding of visual language, especially applied to the use of images to complement their texts.

Content

In this introductory class on science communication and writing, students will learn about challenges related to science communication and the most recent views such as the so-called shift from one- to two-ways communication, and issues on credibility and trust of science and scientists. Students will then get an introduction to effective writing techniques, the concept of framing messages, and storytelling. They will practice writing a short, compelling text adding a visual to provide the clearest possible presentation of a scientific topic, aiming at the general public. The final product will be a potential post for a blog or a newsletter. At the end of the workshop, students should have improved their skills in dialoguing with and engaging a non-specialist audience. The course is offered by ETH4D and preference will be given to students working on global development issues.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR

Examination

Type
ungraded semester performance

Registration & Places

Limited places (Special selection)
Signup End
04.11.2021

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
seminar Communicating Science for Global Development
  • 26.11 Date 09:15-13:00 (CLD A 1)
  • 03.12 Date 09:15-13:00 (CLD A 1)
8 h semesterly

Offered In